ELLE Edit: The Best LED Face Masks For Every Skin Concern

If you’ve ever splashed out on an expensive facial, you probably have light therapy to thank for that glowy finish. And happily, modern tech now lets you achieve selfie-ready skin from your sofa in the form of an LED face mask.

'But do they really deliver the same results as my facialist?' we hear you ponder, and the answer is, alas, 'no'. Nothing can replace an experienced professional, but at-home LED gadgets will supercharge your regular skincare routine and prove a solid investment in the long run.

The best LED masks can be expensive, but if you use them properly and consistently, you will notice impressive results. Keep reading to discover the best way to use an LED mask and see which ones have the ELLE seal of approval.

Do LED masks actually work?

While different lights and treatment times all play a part, light therapy has been used in the best dermatology clinics for many years now.

‘Previously, LED (light therapy) was only available via advanced clinicians and dermatologists,’ explains says Dr Kemi Fabusiwa, medical doctor and founder of the Joyful Skin Clinic. ‘But now, consumers are able to use light LED from the comfort of their homes, while enjoying a glass of wine and watching TV.’

The technology is certainly growing in popularity, but can it rival in-clinic results? ‘The quality and efficacy of at-home LED masks may vary, but more studies are needed,’ she says. ‘It is important to use them consistently alongside an excellent skincare routine for maximum benefit.’

What are the benefits of light therapy?

Light therapy has been around for decades. Originally developed to help heal and repair skin tissue, it’s since earned its rightful place in the dermatologist's office, solving skincare issues from breakouts to redness. But how does it work?

Dr Fabusiwa explains: ‘Plants directly absorb light from the sun in order to grow. In the same way, certain wavelengths of light (particularly red, infrared and blue lights) can be absorbed into our skin cells, improving their health and helping to reduce wrinkles, inflammation, acne, scarring and premature signs of ageing.’

That ticks a lot of boxes on our skincare list, but how do you know which lights you need? Well, they all serve a unique skin purpose:

• Red: Supports the production of collagen, which helps provide support and structure to the skin. Red light is therefore used to help reverse some of the signs of ageing, and some studies suggest that it may be useful for certain types of hair loss.
• Amber: Helps those with sensitive skin struggling with redness, flushing and rosacea as it works to increase cellular growth, which promotes skin healing and soothes inflammation. However, it's not found in many at-home options.
• Green: A saviour for those struggling with age spots or hyperpigmentation, this light helps brighten the skin and can be used to treat broken capillaries and dark under-eye circles.
• Blue: Helps manage inflammation and destroys the species of bacteria on the skin that's most prevalent in acne. It also helps reduce oil production.
• Infrared: Potentially the most commonly talked about from our list of colours, this light is famous for tackling fine lines and wrinkles and increasing collagen density.

How do you use an LED mask?

Each LED mask will come with its own specific guidance, but as a general rule, most advise using three times a week for maximum efficacy – and you shouldn’t have to wait long to enjoy more radiant skin.

‘Hopefully, you should notice results quite early on in your treatment,’ says Dr Fabusiwa. ‘However, as with many areas of skin health, consistency is key. Don't give up if you haven't noticed improvement in a few weeks. Unless it’s irritating your skin, keep going.’

It's normal for your skin to feel a little dry initially after each treatment, but take a break if you experience any irritation.‘Make sure you hydrate your skin barrier by using nourishing creams, and always use SPF,’ she adds.

Are LED face masks safe?

LED masks are non-invasive and don’t emit UV light (the kind that can cause burns), meaning most experts agree that they shouldn't cause any harm.

‘LED light therapy is generally considered safe, but those with sensitive eyes may be at risk,' says Dr Fabusiwa. ‘Consider wearing appropriate eyewear to minimise the risk of theoretical eye damage, and check with your GP prior to starting treatment, particularly if you're worried about a particular skin condition.’

So, if you're now wondering what the best LED mask is, keep scrolling to discover our 2024 favourites...